Libraries in Cork City and County are set to benefit from €292,490 in Government funding, a Fine Gael Senator said.

 

The funding was announced this week by the Minister for Rural & Community Development, Michael Ring TD.

 

Senator Jerry Buttimer said this represents an unprecedented Government investment in our public libraries. The funding will allow for the modernisation of our library service and for the extension of library opening hours.

 

Senator Buttimer said: “This investment package comprises €219,368 from the Department of Rural and Community Development, supplemented by additional funding of €73,122 from Cork City and County Councils

 

“This funding is in addition to significant funding already provided by Minister Ring’s Department for public libraries here this year.

 

“Here in Cork this investment will enable the implementation of our new public library strategy which will be launched early next year and which will be focused on modernising the public library service and enhancing the range and quality of services available to users.

 

“It’s an ambitious strategy which is aimed at increasing library membership and usage of our public libraries.

 

“This programme of funding demonstrates Fine Gaels continued commitment to the public library service over the coming five-year period of the strategy.”

 

Minister Ring said: ““This is an exciting time for the public library service and for library staff. The roll out of self-service technology in our libraries will free up librarians who can use their expertise to assist library users and direct people to the many excellent services offered by the libraries.

 

“The public library service has recently introduced a single library management system and a national distribution service that provides branch to branch collection and delivery.

 

“Through this ground-breaking new lending service there is access to 15 million items for all library users in Ireland and nationwide access to all library services.”